Road trips, megacities, or endless expanses: The USA is truly the land of unlimited possibilities. A trip to the USA leaves no one unimpressed! You can get some tips for your vacation here, especially regarding city trips in the USA. New York is one of my favorite cities!
What there is to see on Route 66 in Illinois! I could have spent weeks more driving along “The Mother of Roads” and discovering small and large towns and their stories. This trip was just full of surprises, like in Joliet, where I suddenly found myself quite unexpectedly in a fascinating lost place: the Old Joliet Prison.
Joliet, the Heritage Corridor and Route 66
Our very first stop from Chicago, where the famous Route 66 starts, was Joliet, just a few kilometers away. Joliet is part of the Heritage Corridor, an area around the Illinois and Michigan canal that connects the Great Lakes from Chicago to the Mississippi River. The Heritage Corridor is primarily a popular recreation area with many opportunities for outdoor activities. By the way, the Joliet Area Historical Museum and its Route 66 Welcome Center, which showcases the history of the area, are a great way to get in the mood for a drive along Route 66.
Lost Place: The insider tip Old Joliet Prison
But the real attraction – and really only recently officially open to visitors at all – is the old Joliet Correctional Center (also: Illinois State Penitentiary), a prison built in 1858 that was still in operation until 2002, believe it or not. Then the new prison opened across the street, inmates and guards moved. What remained was an abandoned building, left to decay – and now a dream for all photographers in search of atmospheric lost places.
The old jail in Joliet – How to get in?
Entering without permission is, of course, strictly forbidden, but in the meantime the city administration has given in to the increasing interest and offers guided tours.
The Old Joliet Prison, however, was a popular setting even when it was in operation, not only for photos, but also for major Hollywood movies and series! Our tour guide proudly showed us John Belushi’s cell from Blues Brothers, and we were not allowed to go any further without first having a photo taken of us in the cell. But the Old Joliet Prison is also a popular filming location in more recent productions!
If you have watched the series“Prison Break“, the prison facility will look familiar to you: The Old Joliet Prison served as the set here too! In the series, the prison was given the name“Fox River State Penitentiary“, where one of the two main characters, Lincoln Burrows, is wrongly serving a prison sentence, while his brother Michael Scofield does everything he can to free him.
Old prison – many stories
In many places, you can still sense an oppressive atmosphere. Many cells are still in their original condition, just as they were left; the bars and the cold, metal plumbing fixtures are still there. And when you consider that prisoners were still held here less than 20 years ago, it sends a chill down your spine.
The atmosphere throughout the facility is gloomy, and I wouldn’t want to know how many creepy stories these thick walls have witnessed.
Old Joliet Prison: Is it worth it?
Unique as a photo backdrop anyway, the visit to Joliet Prison was absolutely worth seeing. Due to the dilapidated condition and the unclear further use of the huge area, be sure to inquire about the current state of affairs beforehand. And: Don’t get any stupid ideas to visit the prison on your own, the area is monitored by the local police. You don’t want to end up in the other prison across the road 🙂
Springfield, Illinois, one of the most historic places in the United States, is located 300 kilometers from Chicago. And no, it’s not the Springfield from *The Simpsons*: It’s just called that because Springfield is one of the most common names for small towns in the U.S. This Springfield is, for one thing, the capital of the state of Illinois (not Chicago—who would have thought?) and, for another, the place where arguably the most significant U.S. president— Abraham Lincoln—made his mark. The historic Route 66 also runs through Springfield, so a stop in Springfield on our Route 66 road trip was an absolute must for a full dose of American history.
Springfield Illinois: The main attractions
History always sounds so dull anyway – and what’s a European to do with American history? The whole of Springfield, Illinois, revolves around Abraham Lincoln, there’s no escaping it, and at first glance, the city that is so meaningful to Americans seems only moderately interesting to us. But turns out, Springfield is so interesting!
First of all, Lincoln was a great person who changed not only America but also the world. And second, Springfield, Illinois, is a charming town and the Lincoln attractions are so wonderfully designed that even if you’re a culture vulture, you’ll be enthralled. And you also learn something along the way. (By the way, as so often on this trip, I thought that such a road trip is also a nice trip for families: many museums and sights are designed to be kid-friendly and kids are always welcome in family-oriented Illinois anyway!)
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum
Dedicated exclusively to the life and work of Abraham Lincoln, the museum is a mix of interactive exhibits and multimedia demonstrations. It’s very informative and people put so much detail into it!
Don’t miss the screening of “Ghosts of the Library” at the Holavision Theatre – and afterwards puzzle over whether the narrator was a hologram or actually on stage. And be sure to look out for costumed guards: they are part of the exhibition and perform pieces throughout the museum!
Abraham Lincoln was in and out of the Old State Capitol in Springfield, which served as the Illinois House of Representatives from 1840 to 1876, throughout his life as a politician and lawyer. Today, you can still visit all the halls there, including furnishings from that time. In 1858, Abraham Lincoln announced his presidential candidacy right here, and in 2007, he was followed by then Senator of Illinois: Barack Obama.
Here, in a sort of an open-air museum, you can see the home of Abraham Lincoln, where he lived until his election as president. The residence has been extensively restored to its condition during Lincoln’s lifetime. But not only was Lincoln’s residence preserved, but so was the entire street.
And with the help of the ubiquitous actors who show life at the time, a visit to the site is like going back in time! If you’re lucky, you might even encounter a deceptively real Abraham Lincoln strolling down the street every now and then.
Abraham Lincoln was buried in Oak Ridge Cemetery, which is one of the most visited cemeteries in the United States as a result. Don’t forget: Be sure to rub the nose of the Lincoln bust in front of the entrance to the mausoleum, it’s supposed to bring good luck! Judging by the scrubbed nose, this is probably really popular and for small people like me, there’s even a stool in front of it!
Shiny from all the rubbing: Abraham Lincoln’s nose.
A few Lincoln Facts:
Abraham Lincolm was President of the USA from 1861 to 1865
the first US president to die in an assassination attempt
Opponent of slavery, which led to the War of Secession between the liberal North and the slave-holding South
Won the Civil War, reunited the North and South, and ensured the end of slavery in all states
lived with his family in Springfield, Illinois, where he began his career as a lawyer and politician
Springfield also has a lot to offer outside of the Lincoln sites, so plan at least one full day for that, better yet two days! What else you should have seen:
Illinois State Capitol
Inaugurated in 1877, the Illinois State Capitol still serves as the Illinois House of Representatives. The dome, visible from a great distance, is over 100 meters high (even taller than the Capitol in Washington, D.C.!) and truly spectacular, especially against the backdrop of the low-rise buildings in the small town of Springfield. (Although Springfield is the capital of Illinois, it has a mere 115,000 residents!)
Tours are held throughout the day, allowing visitors to explore the Chamber of Deputies with its impressive crystal chandeliers—subject to availability. The huge dome is even more impressive from the inside—after experiencing so much small-town charm along Route 66, I couldn’t believe my eyes when I suddenly saw such opulent architecture. Truly impressive.
Frank Lloyd Wright was one of the most famous American architects of the last century: for example, he designed the Guggenheim Museum in New York. With his “Prairie Houses,” he created the concept of “organic architecture,” where houses and buildings were meant to blend seamlessly into the landscape, art, and culture.
One of these Prairie Houses is Susan Lawrence Dana‘s house: lots of wood, unexpectedly dark, but tremendously visionary for its year of construction (1902). 35 rooms spread over 3 floors and 16 mezzanines in total. Wild parties are said to have taken place here. Oh, and there’s also a bowling alley right behind the entrance.
Eating and drinking in Springfield: The best locations
In Springfield, Illinois, there are quite a few places you absolutely shouldn’t miss on your Route 66 trip! It doesn’t get any more American than this. And just like in the rest of Illinois, you’ll find plenty of “makers” here: creative small business owners in crafts, retail, and agriculture —producing fair, local, and sustainable goods. They’re all part of a public program called Illinois Made.
On our road trip through Illinois, we met a number of people along the way—café and restaurant owners, microbrewery operators, and artisans—and it’s impressive to see the enthusiasm with which these small businesses go about their work.
Custom Cup Coffee
The coffee is roasted right here on the premises—and you can even watch it happen! If you’re interested, they’ll answer any questions you have about coffee. The owners of Custom Cup Coffee are committed to fair-trade coffee and know most of their suppliers from around the world personally. And in addition to fantastic coffee and friendly service, they serve up the most amazing apple-cinnamon-bacon pastries ever.
Route 66 Motorheads Bar
The Route 66 Motorheads Bar isn’t just a classic Route 66 trucker bar on the side of the road—it’s also a museum, with classic cars parked out front, vintage signs inside and out, and plenty of neon. In the shed next door, you can not only admire even more exhibits but also watch the restoration work in progress. By the way: It’s an absolutely fantastic spot for photos!
Cozy Dog Drive In
A real must-see on Route 66: The Cozy Dog was invented at the Cozy Dog Drive-In —it’s a hot dog on a skewer, deep-fried in a batter coating. It sounds outrageously greasy—and it is—but it’s also kind of delicious. One order with fries for two is easily enough for four—just like everywhere else. The portions are huge.
The Cozy Dog Drive-In is a Route 66 institution. People of all ages—not just tourists—have been coming here since 1949! The atmosphere is warm and family-friendly; everyone knows everyone else, and everyone knows Bob Waldmire: This Route 66 legend—who has an entire exhibit dedicated to him at the Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum in Pontiac —is the son of the founder, Ed Waldmire. Incidentally, the Cozy Dog Drive-In is still family-owned and is now run by one of Ed’s grandsons.
Engrained Brewery & Restaurant
At Engrained, they’re brewing up a storm: If you’d like, you can order a selection of five different beers, served on a wooden board. I highly recommend it—each one is more delicious than the last. By the way, Engrained uses the leftover grains from beer production to make the dough for their flatbread pizzas—nothing goes to waste!
And here, too, you’ll find the Horseshoe Sandwich, a Springfield, Illinois, classic: a slice of toast with a juicy burger patty, piled high with endless fries, and topped with cheese sauce. The portion, as always: huge. If that’s too much for you, order a “Ponyshoe.” Not that it makes much of a difference: Either way, on Route 66, between the beer, Horseshoes, and Cozy Dogs, you’ll have to slowly say goodbye to your diet anyway.
Practical tips for visiting Springfield, Illinois
Be sure to set aside enough time for Springfield—there’s plenty to see. It’s definitely worth making a stop in Springfield and staying overnight. The city has several large hotels offering good accommodations, including the Wyndham Springfield City Centre. From the outside, it’s an eye-catching high-rise—which some Springfield residents have given a suggestive nickname—but it has one major advantage: from the upper floors, you’ll have the best view of the city and the State Capitol. Be sure to ask for a room with a view of downtown.
By the way, you can also reach Springfield from Chicago by train if you don’t want to rent a car—but once you’re there, it’s actually often easier to get around by car, since public transportation isn’t particularly well-developed and some locations are quite far apart.
This research trip was sponsored byEnjoy Illinoiswas supported.
Route 66. The name alone evokes all sorts of associations: I dream of freedom, endless roads through the American Midwest, and driving, driving, driving into the vastness of a country that seems both more mysterious and more fascinating to me with every visit. Did you actually know that Route 66 starts right in the heart of Chicago? Just around the corner from The Bean, so to speak? This makes it perfect to combine a few days in Chicago with a short trip along Route 66: a truly American road trip! Just like in the movies. It’s always been on my “must-see-in-my-lifetime” list.
The charm of the Midwest
Starting in Chicago, you can follow the old Route 66 throughout Illinois, and it feels like traveling back in time through the America of the last century. Every place along Route 66 in Illinois has its own charm and its own history in connection with the road that criss-crossed not only the country but also people’s lives. And it was these that made this road trip so special.
Even in Chicago, I was struck by the incomparable friendliness of the people. The gruff Berliner in me was irritated when, on more than one occasion, complete strangers threw themselves in front of me just to hold the door open for me. Or spontaneous high-fives with shoe sellers who admired my shoes. Or strange women shouting at you in the middle of the street: “I love your skirt!” Just like that. Because you can say something nice out loud instead of just looking furtively. In general, being nice is a basic requirement for life here. And we were still in an anonymous city!
But things got even more amazing when we left the city on our road trip. Chicago itself only has 2.7 million inhabitants, and the rest is so spread out that you quickly get the feeling that you’re in the countryside as soon as you leave the city by car.
And this is where the positive energy and joie de vivre of the Midwest really hits you. Not once, not a single damn time, did I have the feeling of encountering bad-tempered or unfriendly people on our road trip. It was crazy, almost unreal. On the contrary, the joy of showing his city, his Route 66, his Midwest, was a gesture from everyone’s heart – and this paragon of a positive attitude to life and pure, genuine joy was so infectious that for the first time I really understood why people are so fascinated by America.
Route 66 – a road full of American history
Actually, Route 66 no longer exists as an official road. At some point, no one was in the mood for almost 4,000 kilometers of cobblestones and/or single-lane country roads: Route 66 was put into operation as early as 1926 as the most important east-west connection.
What was a revolution for the infrastructure at the time was no longer sufficient to cope with the increasing traffic. Route 66 was relocated and rebuilt several times until it was replaced by interstate highways in most places. What remained was the legend. Along with the quirky stories, the warm-hearted people and the many rest stops and stores along the road that lured passing cars with the most eye-catching signs and craziest buildings.
*Transparency: I was invited on this trip by Enjoy Illinois for research purposes. for research purposes.
Chicago is an absolute foodie paradise! Endless restaurants, bars, and cafés! Do people think you can only get bad food in the U.S.? Not in Chicago… researching this Chicago Food Guide was really no trouble at all. I have to admit that I often have a hard time finding good food in the U.S. Burgers and the like are certainly okay every now and then, but constantly eating fried, oversalted food, with little fresh fruit and vegetables and no variety in flavors, gets boring in the long run. In big cities, you can still find alternatives—expensive as usual, but not very spectacular or worth the price. Chicago, on the other hand, is a paradise for anyone who loves good food and drinks: here, one great restaurant follows another, just like the fantastic bars with excellent bartenders. I’ve put together a small selection for you here: My Top Restaurants in Chicago—Classics and New Trends!
1) Gino’s East: The Original Chicago Deep Dish Pizza
The Deep Dish Pizza is probably the most famous Chicago dish. Invented by Italian immigrants, deep dish pizza is as much a part of Chicago as the Willis Tower. You really shouldn’t leave Chicago without trying a Deep Dish Pizza once. At the same time, the Deep Dish Pizza is so very different from the traditional Italian pizza.
It’s smaller and thicker, similar to a quiche, and secondly, the toppings are placed in a different order, almost exactly the other way around. The dough is yellowish because it’s made of corn flour and is more like a mixture of puff pastry and shortbread. The cheese goes on the bottom of the pizza, tomato sauce and other toppings on top. Cut the pizza into quarters, and when you lift the pizza slice, the abundant cheese pulls oodles of strings.
Tip for pizza fans On this food tour, you will learn all about the famous deep dish pizza and can try different varieties: Bookyour pizza tour here*
Gino’s East has been one of Chicago’s institutions when it comes to deep dish pizza since 1966! The special thing about this location is not only the pizza, but the fact that every guest is lent a sharpie with the pizza, with which he can immortalize himself somewhere on one of the walls in this restaurant, which extends over several floors! And nothing is painted over! The probability is therefore very high that you’ll find your piece of art at the next visit!
There’s also real American food in Chicago! Located right at the end of the famous Route 66 (the beginning is on the parallel street, as both streets are one-way), Lou Mitchell’s is a classic American diner. The food is authentic, heavy as usual, and perhaps therefore not everyone’s cup of tea. However, what impressed me much more than the food (and that’s why I included it here in the list) is the absolutely authentic American diner atmosphere with the vintage interior. There’s really no better place to start a road trip along Route 66!
As with the pizza, I didn’t know that there was a Chicago-style hot dog, which is available on every corner in Chicago and is much more popular than the traditional versions with fried onions or sauerkraut.
The beer garden at Navy Pier has a particularly tasty hot dog! You get a fantastic view of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline for free. By the way, the Chicago hot dog has all kinds of fresh stuff on it: diced white onions, lots of tomato chunks, pickles, mustard and pickled vegetables. The bun is sprinkled with poppy seeds, the sausage is made of beef only. Colorful and delicious! Plus, ketchup is an absolute no-go on the Chicago-style hot dog!
Yes, I really did it: I ate frog legs. And what can I say? They taste like chicken! Of course! 🙂 Hugo’s Frog Bar is the Chicago institution for frog legs, the French influence has left its mark in Chicago. Hugo’s is a bit more high-priced, but also unbeatable when it comes to quality. I love to eat fish anyway, seafood like crabs and mussels rather less, but at Hugo’s I even ate king crabs with pleasure.
Hugo’s Frog Bar & Fish House, by the way, is owned by the best steakhouse in town, Gibson’s (right next door), and also serves the best Black Angus beef if you’re not into seafood. My filet was divine! The ambience is also classic American. Large bar, lots of dark wood, tables with checkered tablecloths and attentive service. Be careful with the desserts: One serving is easily enough for five – or you can take the rest in the doggy bag and still invite guests for coffee the next day.
A Soho House is always a guarantee of a nice cafe as well. In Chicago, you’ll find The Allis on the first floor of Soho House, nice for coffee, breakfast or afternoon tea. The decor is something between an English library and an American clubhouse, cozy but zero dusty. Drink coffee and be amazed.
6) Dove’s Luncheonette: Chicago Blues & Soul from the 70s
Another diner. This time, however, a successful symbiosis of retro look and modern Tex-Mex cuisine. The interior with wood paneling and jukebox immediately transport you to the 70s. In addition, the cuisine is modern: No overloaded plates, as you might be used to from Mexican cuisine in the USA, lots of fresh ingredients and unusual combinations.
Dove’s Luncheonette is located in Wicker Park just below the Damen CTA station. By the way, there are lots of exciting places to eat in the area, and right around the corner is Milwaukee Avenue, a really nice shopping street where you can find smaller boutiques, but also bigger stores like Urban Outfitters. Perfect if you don’t feel like shopping malls or the hustle and bustle around Michigan Avenue downtown.
Chicago has much more to offer, of course, but I think this is a nice sampling that represents well the range of possibilities. Discovering on your own is also fun – here are a few more areas where you can find great places to eat:
West Loop: a former industrial area, around Fulton Market and along Randolph Street you will find a lot of great places to eat and drink, also a nice nightlife area. Once a year, the “Taste of Randolph” food festival takes place with lots of music and food from the surrounding restaurants.
Wicker Park: around the Damen station, along Milwaukee Avenue and Division Street.
around Logan Square
and of course Downtown
More articles about Chicago and Illinois at a glance:
Want to go to Chicago this summer? City breaks in the US actually go all year round, but here in this article I’ve put together a few summer ideas for you specifically! And don’t worry, Chicago is really exciting in the summer too!
When I said goodbye to Chicago for the last time, I actually became very sentimental: only 24 hours had been enough to let this city fascinate me. Maybe also because I ended up there without great expectations.
Chicago: The insider’s tip among major American cities
Who already has Chicago on their radar as a cool city? During this time, when I exceptionally flew long haul instead of short haul, I was often in the USA. That never really gladly: the flights were anyway strenuous, the rest time short and if one already stands as actual Berlin long sleepers unusually already at four o’clock in the morning jetlagbedingt vertically in the hotel bed, then the following half free day takes already no good beginning.
And in general, there wasn’t much that attracted me to the destinations in the USA: Sure – it was great to get to know Boston, Washington or Denver, not to mention New York (which I already knew, but you can never get enough of New York) and Miami. But New York is New York, and Miami – well, with my South American roots, that was more like a visit home than the great America.
Only Chicago had grabbed me by the end of my long-distance visit, and somehow quite unexpectedly. Chicago was never on my personal must-see map – but then it turned out to be such a great city that I didn’t want to leave: Great architecture, a skyline and big city flair almost like New York, great museums, huge shopping temples and yet a friendly, almost warm atmosphere everywhere you go. The grumpy Berliner in me was irritated and thrilled at the same time. As expected, it was hard to say goodbye. I would have liked to stay 1-2 days longer, but no one asks me when I’m on duty. The pick-up is waiting, go, go, off to the airport, back to Germany. And I knew: This was definitely not the last time I was here. As luck would have it, I ended up back in Chicago almost a year later – and this time I didn’t have to go back after 24 hours. One thing in advance: My enthusiasm for the city has not changed.
Chicago as a summer destination: city trip to the USA
Chicago can get freezing cold and more than uncomfortable in the winter – summer is all the more beautiful for it. Basically, you have to be prepared for all kinds of weather in Chicago. Within a few days, the weather changed from windy and rainy to the worst heat wave with an official weather warning. But the constant extreme weather changes didn’t seem to rob anyone of their good mood, and more than once I heard the standard general saying about the weather:
If you wish for different weather in Chicago, just switch sides of the street!
And that’s how everyone enjoys summer in Chicago: with free concerts and events everywhere, street festivals, beach life (yes, there are little stretches of beach on Lake Michigan almost in the middle of the city, too) or just barbecuing in the front yard.
What is there to do in Chicago in the summer? Some tips.
The list of sights and “things to do” in Chicago is long. Especially in the summer, there are many more outdoor options, so these are just a few suggestions for making the most of your stay in Chicago.
Millenium Park – Concerts for free and a photo in front of “The Bean
The Bean is actually called Cloud Gate and is a sculpture by Sir Anish Kapoor. The Bean quickly became the city’s landmark after its completion in 2006, and today crowds of tourists scramble in front of it every day to get the best photo together with The Bean. Me too, of course, because The Bean impressed me last time I was in Chicago. The reflections of people, skyline and sky on the brightly polished surface are simply fascinating.
Next door, at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, an open-air venue, and the adjacent parks, there are free(!) concerts and music festivals throughout the summer, from jazz to house to reggae, plus all sorts of events like morning yoga or urban gardening projects. It’s worth taking a look at Millennium Park’s annual summer program!
Street parties without end: Get out into the neighborhoods of Chicago!
It’s not just the middle of the city that’s celebrating summer; outdoor events are always happening in Chicago’s individual neighborhoods and wards. Chicago is truly a melting pot of many different cultures and each one celebrates itself with its own event, or so one gets the impression. What I found remarkable was that many immigrant families in Chicago have lived in Chicago for several generations and still maintain their own culture – without isolating themselves. They’re all Chicagoans at heart, too – and you can feel that commonality. The atmosphere in Chicago is also truly unique in terms of multicultural coexistence.
In Humboldt Park, for example, the Puerto Rican Festival took place – parades, car parades, a park full of fairground booths and salsa and reggaeton on every corner. Inviting and open to all.
Or there are food festivals like theTaste of Randolph in West Loop. This district used to be an industrial area with warehouses and factories, but in recent years it has mutated into an absolute food mecca (Chicagoans love good food so much) and hipster district.
Around Fulton Market and along Randolph Street, there are the most amazing restaurants and bars; so many that you would definitely need a few weeks to try your way through them. The Taste of Randolph is therefore the best opportunity. All of these restaurants have a food stand and offer their best dishes for a small price. In addition, there are stages with really good music – and once again: an absolutely inviting and relaxed atmosphere. They’re just hearty, these Chicagoans.
With the Segway through the parks of Chicago
When you see all the skyline photos of Chicago, it seems incredible that there are large green spaces in the middle of this city. But just as with Central Park in New York, Chicago has made a point of maintaining large parks in the middle of the city, such as Grant Park, which houses Millennium Park, or Lincoln Park with its free (!) zoo.
I explored Grant Park and the following green areas along the shore of Lake Michigan by Segway – which in retrospect was really a good idea despite the high temperatures. On the one hand, the airstream cools a bit, and on the other hand, the whole facility is so huge that it would take a long time to walk around. In addition, the entire route is relatively flat and well paved. Segway riding is learned within minutes and is a lot of fun!
A city like Chicago is best viewed from above – there are two special spots for this: the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower and once the tallest building in the world) or the 360 Chicago Observation Deck on the John Hancock Tower in the middle of Michigan Avenue, the main shopping street on the Magnificent Mile. Both offer great views of all of Chicago and Lake Michigan when the weather is good – and both locations have an extra gimmick! On the Willis Tower skydeck, there are four fully glazed exits, and in 360 Chicago, you can recline on angled panoramic windows that tilt forward.
Coming early is worth it, the view is better and you save long queues, especially in summer. The sunset from one of the viewing platforms is also worth seeing. Unfortunately, the entrance fee is quite steep, but with a Chicago City Pass you can save money. The best thing you can do is just compare: Is the Chicago City Pass worth it? (Experience & Prices)
Want to read more about Chicago? Find out more here:
The 606 – outdoor secret in Wicker Park
The neighborhoods in Chicago are definitely worth exploring. Areas like Wicker Park, Bucktown, Logan Square or Boystown all have their own charm and you can easily spend a whole day exploring individual neighborhoods. Wicker Park, for example, has lots of great cafés and restaurants where you can sit outside in summer temperatures (which is always very convenient for me as an air conditioning avoider!) And small, fine stores. And in between street art. The perfect environment for a chill day in Chicago!
If you’re still in the mood for the outdoors after the downtown parks, check out the 606 Trail in Wicker Park – a relatively well-hidden old elevated train track that’s been converted into a recreation area similar to the Highline in New York. The entrances are hard to find right away and tourists are less attracted to it, but once you’re up there, you get to see Chicago’s residential areas from a different perspective. Nice contrast to the busy center! How to get there: 606 Trail website.
By boat, bus and train through Chicago
Because it was so nice last time, and to remember this great day again, I took a boat trip again this time. The possibility to almost drive through the skyscrapers is unique.
The architecture boat tour* is really very good and stands out very much from usual tourist tours. The guides really have a broad knowledge of architecture – and I would never have guessed before my first visit that Chicago was so interesting architecturally! For those who are not so interested in architecture after all, I recommend at least a classic boat tour through Chicago to see Chicago from Lake Michigan at least once – the view of the skyline from the water is unique.
To get around the city, you can simply take one of the water cabs. They’re smaller, usually never crowded, and with a day pass for just $10, you can explore the city like a hop-on hop-off bus! In fact, the Water Taxis stop at all major points along the Chicago River. Coupled with a CTA day pass, also only $10, which allows you to use all public buses, subways and elevated trains (including the one that goes all around the center, The Loop, and has great views!), it’s the perfect combination.
A hotel or a place to stay is no problem in a city like Chicago – just unfortunately very expensive. But what is also really worth it with this fantastic city.
Here are a few self-tested hotel suggestions:
Low-budget with authentic charm: Freehand Chicago, right in the heart of the city and featuring a sensational bar open to everyone, not just hotel guests A massive hotel classic with an impressive ballroom serving as the lobby: Hilton Chicago on Michigan Avenue Right on the Magnificent Mile: the Warwick Allerton Chicago combines big-city flair with classic luxury
I was invited on the trip to Chicago and Illinois by Enjoy Illinois. Of course, my opinion remains unaffected – I was already enthusiastic about Chicago before anyway 🙂
Ah, New York. I’ll probably never get tired of this city, even the fresh breeze on Brighton Beach in Coney Island couldn’t harm me. In January, I flew to New York again. In nine months on the long haul I was there three or four times, I think. This is a special circumstance, because I have actually always made sure that the destinations in my roster do not repeat themselves too much. I wanted to see as much as possible of the flight schedule in the short time available.
But for New York, I made an exception to my resolution. New York is never too much. But the stays were always short and I had to fight with my mixture of exhaustion and jetlag, so that at the end of a good 24 hours on site minus long bus rides to the hotel and a bit of sleep there was never much time. So it was clear: I would have to go back to New York again with more time. And so I packed my bags.
Coney Island is located in the southern part of the New York borough of Brooklyn
At the beginning of the 20th century, Coney Island was famous worldwide for its amusement mile
Rides such as theWonder Wheel, built in 1920, andthe wooden roller coasterThe Cyclone, which opened in 1927, were revolutionary
The Mermaid Parade, a large street parade that marks the start of the summer season, takes place every year
Coney Island in winter
Three factors then came together at the beginning of the year: I had plenty of time off, I still had a vacation flight left over from last year, and best of all, there was a direct flight from Berlin to New York, which was always empty. Long-haul flights from Berlin are always a rarity, and many routes do not survive more than one season. (The flight to New York is no longer available either). I hate changing planes, especially at large airports. You have to walk a lot, the hustle and bustle is stressful and noisy. That’s why a direct flight from a smaller airport right on your doorstep is a real gift.
The famous Wonder Wheel Ferris wheel is the landmark of Coney Island
Brighton Beach: The Beach of Coney Island
It became clear pretty quickly during my time on the long-haul route: I like New York, I like traveling far away—but I’d rather do it for personal reasons than for work. Having more time in America again for the first time, without being plagued by total exhaustion and various emotional distractions, was so relaxing and pleasant. And all that time on the ground! I spent almost an entire day driving from Coney Island all the way to Brighton Beach and enjoying a sunny day by the sea. Weather-wise, it was a real treat.
Perfect for swimming in summer: The wide beaches of Coney Island
And everything is so beautifully nostalgic. The boardwalk, the food stands, the famous Wonder Wheel, which is one of Coney Island’s most impressive attractions. Everything is closed during the winter; no wonder, since winters in New York are sometimes so harsh that you don’t want to leave the house for weeks on end. Still, on a clear winter day, Coney Island offers a complete change of pace from the urban jungle of Manhattan, and you can let the fresh Atlantic breeze clear your head.
If you want to experience Coney Island in full swing, with all its food stands and rides, you should visit between spring and fall: The season in Coney Island runs from late March to late October. For a ride on the legendary Wonder Wheel, head to Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park; for the nostalgic Cyclone roller coaster, head to Luna Park.
Coney Island is kind of like a cabinet of curiosities from days gone by: Every year, the Coney Island Art Center organizes quirky events like the Mermaid Parade. Mainly during the season, of course—you can find all the dates here.
The famous hot dogs of Coney Island
Nathan’s Famous is said to have the best hot dogs in town, and definitely the most famous. Founded in 1916 by Polish-Jewish immigrants, the initially small hot dog stand became a popular fast food restaurant in Coney Island.
In the 1970s, the annual hot dog eating contest was invented, which brought Nathan’s Famous even more popularity. This well-attended and very popular event takes place every year on July 4, Independence Day, a major national holiday in the United States. It is held at the large flagship location on the corner of Surf and Stillwell Avenues.
But even if you can’t make it to the big eating contest (and you like meat, because unfortunately there aren’t too many options for vegetarians), you should definitely stop by the main branch and try one of the legendary hot dogs in a stylish ambience.
Popular since 1916: the hot dogs from Nathan’s Famous in Coney Island.
The Coney Art Walls are also just around the corner. The freely accessible open-air gallery consists of several colorful murals and reminded me a bit of the Wynwood Walls in Miami. Very worth seeing and another beautiful photo spot in Coney Island.
Frequently asked questions about Coney Island
Are you planning a trip to New York? Coney Island isn’t necessarily the very first place you’d think to visit in New York, but it’s still well worth seeing. Plus, Coney Island is relatively easy to get to. Here, I’ll answer the most important questions so you have a good overview.
Chicago’s architecture is simply remarkable: a wild mix of diverse modernist styles can be found here. Even people who aren’t interested in architecture will quickly notice this. The best way to see these artistic skyscrapers is from a boat: I’ll let you in on which boat tour you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Chicago!
Boat Tour in Chicago: A Quick Tour of the Architecture
Regular water taxis run on the Chicago River, which flows right through the heart of the city—but there are also boat tours offered by various companies that let you take your time exploring Chicago from the water. The Chicago Architecture Boat Tour is especially recommended; on this tour, you’ll also get plenty of interesting information about Chicago’s architecture from local experts!
I’ve pretty much perfected my talent for speed sightseeing, but spending half a day in Chicago while jet-lagged was a real challenge. I do like to explore cities on foot or by bike (when possible). During layovers after long-haul flights, I’ve found myself increasingly craving the luxury of just being driven around—so I often ended up on some red hop-on-hop-off tourist buses. But in Chicago, a colleague recommended the architecture boat tour—and that sounded very relaxing, too.
Chicago: Architecture in the Second City
I didn’t know much about Chicago itself. But the fact that Chicago is so underrated is probably nothing new. That’s also reflected in Chicago’s nickname: “The Second City.” Second, because it’s always in New York’s shadow. In a way, Chicago and New York are cut from the same cloth: big cities, steeped in history (by American standards), and towering skyscrapers. But somehow, there’s just nothing particularly iconic that everyone in the world knows: no Empire State Building, no Statue of Liberty, no Big Apple. Or does anything about Chicago come to mind right away?
And yet Chicago has so much to offer! Lake Michigan, which is actually more like an ocean than a lake. The famous pan pizza (which I didn’t try a single slice of—what a shame!). Gangster stories from the old days. Art! Art! Art! And: architecture. And the best way to see it is on a boat tour.
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Chicago’s architecture by boat
As I’ve already hinted at, long-haul travel makes you lazy when it comes to sightseeing. After all, how are you supposed to get around when you fly halfway around the world in two and a half days and spend most of that time working? I highly recommend a boat tour. In good weather, of course. Which, admittedly, can get a little difficult in Chicago – because Chicago has another nickname: The Windy City. And the wind there can really blow you away. In our case, the Chicago wind just swept away the last little clouds and rewarded us with an absolutely fantastic blue sky! No wonder my enthusiasm for Chicago was ignited immediately.
The boat tour sounded appealing. And it didn’t disappoint. We chose the architecture boat tour through Chicago’s skyscraper canyons. I’m not sure I would have paid such close attention to the individual giant skyscrapers if I’d just been striding through the streets with a stiff neck from looking up. Many of the buildings are simply impressive—after all, Chicago was the birthplace of skyscrapers over a hundred years ago. So much for New York! Ha!
The famous Buckingham Fountain
A little anecdote to wrap things up: On the ride back to the hotel, our driver raved to us about his hometown of Chicago, and we realized just how little of the city we’d actually seen, despite having had such a great day. He enthusiastically listed all of Chicago’s attractions. None of it sounded familiar to us. Until we drove past the Buckingham Fountain—a huge freestanding fountain—and, as kids of the ’90s, we immediately started singing the theme song from “Married… with Children” —and our driver couldn’t believe that, of all the things from his Chicago, only Al Bundy had stuck in our minds here in Germany.
Get up really early, be on the Brooklyn Bridge in time for sunrise, and then listen to Frank Sinatra’s ultimate New York anthem or, alternatively, “Empire State of Mind” by Alicia Keys: that was the plan. For the absolutely bombastic, ultimate New York feeling.
Incidentally, the Brooklyn Bridge offers a fantastic view of the southern tip of Manhattan, where you can see New York’s most famous skyscrapers, such as the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center. For me, this view is one of the most beautiful in New York, alongside the panorama from the Top of the Rock.
The Brooklyn Bridge at sunrise: one of the highlights in New York!
Sunrise New York: From Brooklyn to Manhattan
I don’t know why you’re not allowed to wear headphones on the Brooklyn Bridge in New York. Music on your ears is probably too distracting – the pedestrian path is too narrow for all the crowds of visitors and joggers that populate the Brooklyn Bridge every day after sunrise. And on the cycle path side, cyclists just shoot back and forth. Music on your ears can be so distracting that collisions are inevitable. But this rule doesn’t actually help much – because the real distraction is the view from the Brooklyn Bridge itself.
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The music didn’t work out, there were too many policemen buzzing around and on the bridge. And since I am always confused in the USA about what is considered a serious crime and what is not, the headphones stayed in my pocket. Not showing up for your return flight because you’ve just been jailed in New York for violating the earplug ban on the Brooklyn Bridge is only semi-funny in a highly reputable company.
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The view of Manhattan from the Brooklyn Bridge
But who needs background music with this view of the Manhattan skyline? More New York is not possible. First the spectacular, well-known bridge piers themselves. The breathtaking construction made of steel cables. Below you, on the second floor of the bridge, the thundering traffic of a city of millions. The Statue of Liberty on Ellis Island in the distance.
The closer you get to the other side of the bridge, the more the very best Manhattan panorama unfolds before you. With the One World Trade Center, the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, and everything else New York has to offer. Until your heart almost stops in awe and fascination. Oh yes, and all lit up by the most beautiful sunrise ever.
At sunrise, you still have the Brooklyn Bridge to yourself.
Tips for the sunrise on the Brooklyn Bridge in New York
Experiencing a sunrise like this in New York is a highlight of any trip to New York. If you have recently arrived from Germany or Europe, jet lag makes it easier to get up early. The time difference between Germany and New York is six hours. While 5 a.m. local time sounds early in New York, it’s already 11 a.m. in Germany. So if you’re spending a long time in New York, I recommend that you start your trip with activities like this one at sunrise in New York.
History of the Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge was actually built over 150 years ago by a German, overshadowed by many difficulties and tragic incidents – and is a masterpiece of engineering of the time.
Where to stay in Brooklyn: A budget tip for New York
Maybe you’re staying in Brooklyn like me, in which case this is the perfect start to a day of sightseeing in Manhattan. You’ll find cheaper accommodation in Brooklyn than in Manhattan. What’s more, Brooklyn has become really hip in recent years. The Brooklyn Bridge ends in the south of Manhattan.
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From there, you can see sights such as One World Trade Center, Wall Street and Battery Park. You can also hop on the subway and explore other parts of Manhattan. The New York subway will be your most practical helper when sightseeing in New York anyway. The network is very good, easy to navigate and the best way to get around New York.
Wynwood and its Wynwood Walls in Miami have long been a dream of mine. One of the best parts about flying to North America is that I get to wake up really early—perfect for watching breathtaking sunrises. And honestly, the sunrise by a hotel on Miami’sSouth Beach is something special, much more spectacular than anywhere else. What’s not to love about Miami? Its beautiful people, gorgeous beaches, and dazzling light—all together create a truly stunning place. Plus, the incredible art and street art scene, especially at Wynwood Walls, makes it even more exciting to visit!
Note: When I visited, admission to the Wynwood Walls was still free, which was really exciting. Since then, things have changed a bit, and now there is a fee. You’ll find all the updated information a little further down in the article. Buy your ticket in advance and avoid waiting in line when you get there
Wynwood Walls: The Street Art Hotspot in Wynwood, Miami
The Wynwood Walls are located a bit off the beaten path from the beach scene in Miami Beach—surprise!— in Wynwood. And actually, they’re not just a few painted, colorful walls, but a self-contained open-air museum with adjoining galleries, a café, and a shop. It’s worth arriving early, before the hordes of tourists show up—especially if you’d like to take a photo in front of one of the walls without a hundred other people in the shot.
Even if you’re not that interested in art, you’ll love the Wynwood Walls: they’re like a giant playground for adults. Everything is colorful, large, and you can touch it. In the park itself, you can touch the walls, marvel at them, and some sculptures are positioned so that you can walk around them and photograph them from every angle. (Climbing on them is prohibited.)
In the large gallery at Wynwood Walls, you can buy your favorite paintings right away.
And the paintings are all so expressive and colorful—especially in the bright, radiant Florida sun—that my jet lag vanished instantly. The Wynwood Walls just put you in a good mood.
Street Art to Go
If you still have some spare change in your pocket, you can take a piece of Wynwood Walls home with you by purchasing one of the artworks from the park’s galleries. But if you’re on a tight budget, you’ll also find prints, books, and other small items in the shop that won’t break the bank.
By the way: You’ll find lots more exciting travel stories from the U.S. on my blog. Click here!
Wynwood Walls: In the Middle of the Wynwood Art District in Miami
In general, Wynwood is the district to visit if you like art. Many galleries are nearby, and you can always find great street art on the sprawling streets of this former industrial area. A good starting point for your walk through Wynwood is NW 2nd Avenue between 23rd and 29th Streets; from there, it’s best to turn down the side streets and let yourself wander through the neighborhood.
In specialty shops, you’ll discover handy maps showing off the best street art spots and stunning pieces. Since the art scene is always evolving and new, exciting artworks appear regularly, it’s a great idea to head out and keep your eyes open mind. I was truly captivated by the vibrant colors and I highly recommend dedicating a full day to exploring Wynwood. Just nearby the Wynwood Walls, you’ll come across the famous mural by Brazilian artist Kobra—it’s definitely worth seeing!
If you want to know who did the work and why it was placed exactly there, a guided tour is worth more than any map.
Guided Tours of the Wynwood Art District
Buggy Tour, including admission to the Wynwood Walls On this tour, you’ll spend an hour riding through the streets of Wynwood in an open-air buggy while a guide explains the most beautiful murals. Bonus: Admission to Wynwood Walls is included in the tour price! Walking Tour Through the Art District —Do You Prefer Walking? Explore Wynwood’s best murals on foot with a guide. Wynwood Foodie Tour: Even aside from all the art, Wynwood is an exciting part of Miami. On this tour, you’ll also discover a few select foodie hotspots and new flavors: a great mix of food trends and street art.
Update: Wynwood Walls now has an admission fee.
Visiting the Wynwood Walls used to be free. Now there is an admission fee—the proceeds are used to pay the artists’ fees and to fund the Wynwood Walls Foundation.
Here are the approximate prices: Adults: approx. 12 USD Seniors 65 and older: 10 USD Children and teens ages 6 to 17: 5 USD Children 5 and under: free, but still need a ticket
The hours of operation have also changed and are now much shorter: daily 10:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m. (last admission at 6:00 p.m.)
Don’t miss the Wynwood Art Walk
If you’re in Miami on the second Saturday of the month, I suggest visiting Wynwood. That day hosts the Wynwood Art Walk, showcasing Wynwood Walls along with numerous galleries and museums. Throughout the day and evening, there are special events and guided tours, with streets filled with street food vendors and live music.
Seeing Washington in one day is a challenging undertaking. How fortunate that pretty much all the major Washington attractions are gathered in one central spot: On the Mall (no, it’s not a shopping mall) are all major government buildings and numerous museums of the Smithsonian Institution like the Museum of Natural History. The Capitol, the White House or the Washington Monument are just some of the major sights here.
Tips for Washington in a day: the best sightseeing attractions
Being in Washington right now was exciting. The presidential election had just been decided. The world was still in shock, while comedians around the world were rubbing their hands: There wouldn’t be any lack of material for new comedy programs for the next four years.
In my job as a flight attendant, you get to go places that you often would never have gotten to otherwise. Every leg, every layover can be a new experience. And sometimes you are just at the right place at the right time like here in Washington, DC. For example, when you walk through London still exhausted from your early morning shift and are wondering about the masses people on the side of the road – and then suddenly the Queen drives past you, waving.
Or when, after arriving at the terminal, your own landing is shown from all angles on all the big screens. Because you had the local football club on board, which has just brought home an important trophy and you didn’t notice at all during the flight! Life in aviation can be so crazy. And so I happened to be in Washington DC just as the whole country was preparing everything for the new president.
#1 The White House
For the first time I stood in front of the White House and then in these exciting times. While outside construction workers were already putting together the stands for the festivities, inside people were probably packing boxes. Poor Obama. Moving is really exhausting. Especially if you don’t get along at all with the next tenant.
So I wished the Obamas well in my mind and at the same time wondered if they might not be a little glad to be moving away, because the White House looks somehow much smaller from the outside than I had imagined. And not glamourous at all!
#2 Washington Monument
In general, it’s one thing with architecture in Washington. I had just come from Brasília, a planned capital with extravagant architecture, so I could compare two very different capitals. The two cities are pretty similar: lots of space, lots of unusual architecture. The Washington Monument is located in the middle of the Mall on top of a hill: From here, you have the perfect view of the Capitol and the Mall in general. And on sunny days (and a wide-angle lens) you’ll get surreal photos like this one.
Washington is the center of power. Somehow, it wasn’t quite as impressive as I expected. Lots of open space and the architecture is more are a copy of ancient Greek and Roman buildings. Places you’ve seen a zillion times on TV, the Capitol, the Washington Monument, the oversized Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, the Lincoln Memorial itself. Often when you get to see famous places like these in real life, it’s quite impressive. However, that failed to happen in Washington, I wasn’t as flashed as I expected. But it was still enough for a nice photo at the Lincoln Memorial.
#4 The Capitol
I could only admire the Capitol, the seat of the U.S. Congress, from afar (above from the Washington Monument), because time was too short! In hindsight, I would have preferred to spend a little more time at the Capitol and to take one of the tours there. Tours of the Capitol must be booked in advance.
At the end of the Mall in Washington DC: The Capitol.
#5 Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
The Mall is lined with some of the best museums in the entire world. One thing I didn’t know before: The admission in all the museums along The Mall is free. So great! I could have spent the whole day just by exploring the various museums here. If I had done better research before, I would now know that most of the state museums in Washington, DC are free of charge. And that’s how I ended up at the SmithsonianNational Museum of Natural History! And I loved it. The quality of the exhibition is truly unique. A lot of volunteers are on hand to answer any questions you might have. An experience not only for children.
I fell in love with the butterfly garden.Trillions of butterflies like in a jungle: The Butterfly Garden!
#6 The Mall
Of course, there’s much more to discover in Washington, DC —but a stroll along the Mall actually covers the basics, such as the White House, the Washington Monument, and the Capitol, and gives you a good overview of the center of power in the U.S. And you could spend hours in each and every one of the museums along the Mall. However, if you’re short on time, it’s best to pick one or two museums based on your own interests. Either way, it’s worth a visit—if only because admission to all the museums is free!
By the way, you can also save money and time with a Washington Sightseeing Pass! Skip the lines and enjoy lots of discounts on most attractions in Washington, D.C.—plus a bus tour is included!
Is it actually possible NOT to be flashed by New York (especially before Christmas)? This giant city, full of people, full of buildings, full of stories. Every single street corner looks familiar, and probably is, because it’s guaranteed to have been in some movie, some series, some news program. A city as familiar as it is unfamiliar.
Astonished, I walked through the street canyons before Christmas, always with my head on my neck, looking left and right. Sometimes also stunned that my job as a flight attendant actually brought me here. Crazy. After 16 years of short-haul flying, it’s still surreal to get off the plane after work and suddenly set foot on another continent.
The ultimate New York feeling before Christmas
I always want to get to know new places. Nothing where I have already been. The few months that I fly long haul instead of short haul are too precious for that. I want to see something. Only in New York, it didn’t matter. Privately, I had been there before, so I knew sights worth seeing and not so sights worth seeing. I also only had 24 hours to sleep, eat and sightsee – always pretty tight, these East Coast layovers. And it was Advent, everything was already calling for Christmas and I wanted the ultimate Christmas-in-New-York feeling! So I roamed through the over and over Christmas decorated Manhattan around Times Square and Fifth Avenue.
Sea of lights in Times Square
Billboards over and over. Times Square is one big commercial and you are right in the middle of it. Everywhere it lights up and flashes, and even if it is basically just really penetrating advertising: the lights of the big city are still fascinating.
Christmas shopping on Fifth Avenue
Fifth Avenue is really nothing special, and then again it is. The new secret presidential residence – the Trump Tower, the largest Victoria’s Secret store ever, the historic St.Patrick’s Cathedral, famous skyscrapers like the Empire State Building andandand… Everything gathers on Fifth Avenue. Perfect if, like me, you don’t really have time. Start at Central Park, then just head down Fifth Avenue and you’ll feel like you’re in a movie.
Skating at Rockefeller Center
At Rockefeller Center, I actually wanted to go ice skating. But the prices actually put me off a bit. And my probably no longer existing skating skills from childhood days. But: Nowhere was Christmas more than here!
Flatiron Building
My favorite skyscraper, the Flatiron Building. Why? I have no idea. Probably because I always wonder what the rooms look like right at the very front of that narrow tip. A nightmare for interior designers.
By the way, I’m going to New York again soon and I’m curious to see where I’ll end up this time.
In aviation, things always turn out differently than you think. Everything is in upheaval, everything is changing, our aviation world is upside down. And so now I’m flying around the world for a few months on the long haul – just like that. With all the trimmings that go with a new flight attendant job: the excitement before the first flight, the wobbly knees, the wondering eyes and a big bellyache from sheer nervousness. And I feel 21 again, like when it all began. Off to Charlotte, off to a little city break in North Carolina, on the east coast of the USA.
Charlotte: Where is that?
Actually, I was grateful that the first flight was to Charlotte. Because it’s not as spectacular as New York or Chicago. (Charlotte, by the way, is in North Carolina/USA and is home to the headquarters of Bank of America. Aha. Learned something again). I was already excited enough.
Unfortunately, small foothills of Hurricane Matthew raged through the city, and so the atmosphere was: special.
What else to do in and around Charlotte
Here are a few ideas for a trip to Charlotte, in case you have better luck with the weather than I did!
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